Sunday Snippet: Sibling Rivalry

What an end to the month. Our weather has been wet and drippy for most of the week. Not complaining because we needed the rain. Of course, the dreary stuff hits the week of our county fair, which is my husband's favorite time of year. Then again, a little water falling from the sky won't deter him from going or enjoying himself.

Work finally slowed down a little and I had some time to catch my breath. I have a new copy edit and proofread combo I'm working on and should have a new project starting this week. I'm also expecting more on the developmental edit I've been working on. And … a project I had a hand in is finally uploaded for proof … after almost four and half years of rewrites and revisions. I'm so excited!!

Had several really great conversations with my daughter this week. I love hearing her ideas of what she wants from the future. This young woman has a good head on her shoulders and I'm so proud of her. Graduate school is opening her mind and eyes and I'm excited to see what she does.

Not a bad week of viewing. The time to catch my breath also gave me a bit of freedom to catch up on my slate of shows. I made almost a full round this week!

Caught two behind-the-scenes vignettes for Signora Volpe. I always enjoy seeing and hearing how things work and what the actors think about their show.

Watched an episode of Death in Paradise and enjoyed it. This is one I hadn't seen before, and I loved the way the mystery played out.

Started a new season of Silent Witness. Very interesting premise and I'm looking forward to the conclusion next week. I'll be starting Beyond Paradise after I finish the new season.

Enjoyed an episode of Elementary. It's interesting to watch Sherlock serve as an AA sponsor. And I really like Watson kind of stepping out on her own to solve a cold case.

Finished up the second part of the season four premier of The Batman. Kind of forgot Batgirl didn't really feature in these opening episodes. I think she makes a return later in the season.

Also caught an episode of Classic Rugrats. I only remembered one of the vignettes, so I enjoyed seeing the other two.

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Sibling Rivalry, a novella that brings a couple together after they have a less than stellar beginning.

Here's the miniblurb:

When Fayne Cartier falls for his brother's flight instructor, Rumor Child, he has no idea how difficult dating will end up being when his brother shows signs of not having the chops to qualify. Rumor won't cut him from her class thinking the sibling rivalry may be just what the younger Cartier needs.

And a sneaky peek…

Fayne blinked at the vision walking toward him. "I knew she'd rock civilian clothes." Frankly, even in uniform, she blew him away.

But tonight, she'd gone for some kind of casual glamour. She'd paired a form-fitting T-shirt with a flowing cardigan that fell to her knees. Her pants were made from something soft and hugged her curves. A pair of suede booties with a slight heel and some understated jewelry completed the outfit.

She gave him a tentative smile when he stood to pull her chair out. "You clean up nice." Her gaze showed keen appreciation.

His crisp button-down and dark-twilled pants had been a last-minute decision, but he'd wanted to make it clear he wanted to spend time with her as more than his brother's instructor.

Glad he'd put some effort into his attire, he leaned down. "And you look amazing." He settled back in his seat and smiled when the server immediately brought menus to the table.

Neither needed time to decide. Rumor ordered the baked steak dinner and Fayne went with his favorite chicken dumplings. Once they had their drink order, he opened the conversation with questions about time in flight school and they compared notes about their instructors. She mentioned using his stats, along with his dad's, as a goal to achieve. He regaled her with stories of trying not to live in his old man's shadow.

He carefully avoided mentioning his brother. He didn't want anything to ruin the evening.

Halfway through the meal, Rumor finally said something. "Are we really going to ignore the big specter in the room?" Her head tilted to one side in question.

Fayne lifted a shoulder. "I don't want to risk screwing this up." But she had a point.

Rumor smiled. "Gonna be hard to pursue something if we can't talk shop. If you're super uncomfortable with the idea, we'll have to skirt the issue."

Fayne hedged a little. "I'm not uncomfortable. I'd love to know how Renner is doing." Or possibly not doing.

Rumor quirked a brow. "Even if he proves you wrong?"

Fayne chuckled. "Definitely. But my gut is screaming Renner isn't cut out for flying." He waited a beat. "So … how's he doing so far?" He didn't know if he really wanted the answer.

Rumor's lips twitched. "Holding his own." She sobered. "But like you said, he won't face a true test until we get past the basics. He's absorbed everything he knows to date practically by osmosis. That will only take him so far."

Fayne couldn't fault the logic she used. "And if I'm right?" Would she accept defeat with as much grace as she'd handled everything else?

Rumor patted his hand. "You're getting a little ahead of things here. Let's cross that bridge when we get to it. Until then, my mind stays open." She brushed her thumb over his skin "The question is … can you leave it alone and let him pass or fail on his own?" She'd very nicely turned his question back on to him.

Fayne took a moment to consider his answer. "I'm willing to try." And he would stick to that promise.

Rumor flashed a grin. "Then you and I are off to a solid start."

Having some fun with this one. Rumor loves a good verbal sparring session and Fayne likes a woman who gives as good as she gets.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Set the Record Straight

September has been such a weird month. Our weather is all over the place—again—and we're baking in high temps. Also have a drought at the moment. I mean the grass crunches when I walk on it right now.

I think we have our car issues solved. Mine is back with a new computer and we did end up with a total loss on the CR-V. Found one to replace that and we're getting everything in order to finalize the purchase. Here's hoping that ends our car drama for a good, long time.

Another super busy work week. Finished up a project and started a new one. I'm in a holding pattern for two more and I may have a new client for some writing coaching. Very excited about my calendar right now!

Did not have a great week of viewing. Too many things distracting me and needing my attention. I might have to start doing playlists instead of television shows. If I do the playlist thing, be forewarned, I have very eclectic taste in music.

I did get an episode of The Batman watched by starting the fourth season. This introduced Superman to the roster, which also means Lex Luthor put in an appearance along with Lois and Jimmy.

Caught an episode of Classic Rugrats. All three vignettes were new to me, which is fun. I feel like I must have skipped several seasons though because I don't remember watching or rewatching several episodes that really stand out in my memory. Might have to check to see if I did.

Also started an episode of My Life Is Murder. This is a two-parter and looks to end the fourth season. Looking forward to finishing this one up and waiting patiently for a fifth season. Fingers crossed!

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Set the Record Straight, a novella that makes a couple face what they feel for each other.

Here's the miniblurb:

Keegan Brimm and Warner Misona check their feelings for each other at the spaceport airlock and have a knock down fight before they finally drag out all the baggage between them to set the record straight.

And a sneaky peek…

Keegan enjoyed the surprised look on his face. "Let's set the record straight again." She moved in, backing him up against the hatch. "From this point forward, it's not just up to me. I did the casual thing for so long because I wanted the business with Westcroft settled before pursuing anything." Her hands skimmed up along his chest. "But you made me see how empty and unsatisfying that was." Her fingers trailed downward to gather the hem of his shirt. "We were building a good foundation to work from, but that damned notification came in and sent me reeling." She inched his shirt up while grazing her lips along his jawline. "I'm over it. And I want this." Leaning back, she held his gaze. "As long as it's mutual and—"

His mouth claimed hers, cutting off the rest of her statement. Oh, good and holy universe. His lips were steamy goodness. Better than she remembered.

She tore her lips away from his. "You can trust this, Warner. I hope you believe that." She couldn't blame him if he didn't.

He cupped her face. "I do, Keegan. I do." He snagged the back of his collar and yanked his shirt off then helped her with hers.

Keegan loosened the button of her fatigues. "In that case … where were we?"

He gathered her close. "I think we were about to find a comfortable spot to get naked and consummate the agreement." His lips scorched a trail along her shoulder.

Keegan shoved her pants down. "Ah, yes." She kicked her feet free and strode to the cushioned bench. "Will this do?"

Warner shucked his pants. "I think it might."

He moved to stand beside her, and she nudged him down with the full intention of rocking his world with a blow job. But he surprised her by grasping her hips and trailing kisses around her navel. She gasped when he dipped his tongue into the indentation at the same time he slid a finger along her folds.

He moaned. "Mmm, Keegan … you're hot and wet."

Keegan's head fell back. "I get that way every time I'm around you." And sometimes even when not.

His eyes slid shut. "Don't tell me that. Now I'm going to picture you that way all the time."

She laughed and eased away. "I'm not going to be sorry about it." She dropped down to her knees. "But I will regret not getting at least a taste of this bad boy soon." She wrapped her hand around his impressive length and lowered her head.

This has been a fun story to write. I love to resolve misunderstandings with hot action.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Serving Justice (companion to Justice is Served)

Once again, Ohio weather is all over the place. But at least it hasn't been sweltering hot. Had setbacks with our cars. Mine is still not quite ready. The new engine computer the garage ordered didn't work so they got another one. Hopefully this week. My husband had a deer literally jump on top of his CR-V, shattering the windshield, knocking the rearview mirror off, and sending the driver's side mirror clear over to the passenger side floor. It even dented the top of the car up to the sunroof. I'm pretty sure it's a total loss. Luckily my husband is okay, aside from having a ton of glass all over him. He found glass all the way in the back of the vehicle.

Really busy work week. I finished up a copy edit and continued work on a developmental edit. Also started a new project that's not quite a developmental edit, but it is cleaning up a lot of formatting in a manuscript to get it ready for a copy edit, which a colleague is going to do. Had an exchange with a new author and hope to work with her in the future.

Semi-decent week of viewing. I didn't quite make a full round, mainly because I spent a lot of time on the phone trying to get the insurance sorted and line up a rental until we know for sure what's going on with the CR-V.

I did get an episode of My Life Is Murder in and thoroughly enjoyed it. Lots of twists and turns in this one. Once again, Madison stole the show. Also really cool to have indigenous representation for the storyline. And … more hints about Alexa's family. Here's hoping we'll see more of them.

I think I watched the finale of Signora Volpe, and it might have set up a future episode featuring Sylvia's ex. That would be a lot of fun. So awesome to see her niece again and getting to know her dad. Isabelle ended up stealing this episode. Going to watch the behind-the-scenes stuff next.

Finished up Best in Paradise with the first of the two-parter that set up Florance's exit. It was a great episode and very bittersweet as the actress mentioned when she introduced the episode.

Also caught another Death in Paradise and enjoyed the mystery. It's also fun to see Jack trying to move on from the loss of his wife. The awkward but awesome communication with Anna is lovely to watch.

Started an episode of Elementary but need to finish it this week. Too many distractions to get all the way through the show. It looks like a good one though.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's episode is from Serving Justice, a novella that's part of an experiment I'm doing with the other two pseudonyms. This is the sci-fi version of Justice Is Served.

Here's the miniblurb:

Jaxine Goodstone is an unwilling pawn in a battle for control of an asteroid field and its mining colony. When a control chip is activated in her, she executes the sitting board members then stumbles into the arms of Upton Viccars, a government agent sent to negotiate the mineral rights. When Jaxine has no memory of her actions, Upton suspects foul play and gradually earns Jaxine's trust—while slowly falling for her—and together they uncover a devious plot that leads back to her childhood in a group home for orphans.

And a sneaky peek…

Jaxine Goodstone stared at the bright light shining over her head, listening to the monotone voices of the doctor and his surgical assistant as they discussed the procedure they wanted to do. Her eyelids drooped and she hated the cold feeling of the fluid they were administering to her through the IV in her arm. The sterile antiseptic smell of the operatory made her nose itch. At twelve, she didn't understand the reason she needed to have surgery, but Dr. Leonardo Moon convinced the matron of the group home Jaxine would be forever changed by the treatment. Her foster brother Lem Falco said he'd be happy to stay at the hospital with Jaxine until the doctors cleared her to go home. At seventeen, he thought he deserved a chance to show his responsibility.

What a load of crap. But the matron apparently bought into his sincerity, because he'd come along with Jaxine.

"Jaxine, you're relaxed now and ready for the procedure. Do you understand?"

Jaxine automatically responded, "Yes, Dr. Moon."

"Good, good." He placed a rubber mask over her face and moved in closer. "Do you remember what we covered in our pre-op discussion?"

Jaxine nodded. "Yes, Dr. Moon."

"And what was that, Jaxine?"

She didn't hesitate with her answer. "I have to count backward from one hundred."

Dr. Moon smiled. "Good, Jaxine, very good." He lifted his surgical mask into place. "Please begin."

Jaxine began as instructed. "Ninety-nine, ninety-eight, ninety-seven…" A floaty sensation filled her, and she drifted along a sea of clouds.

Dr. Moon glanced up when someone else entered the room. "She's ready. You know what the parameters are once this is complete?"

Jaxine's eyes twitched and she tried to pay attention. Parameters for what? Did the matron know about this?

"I know exactly what the goal is. I'll make sure she carries through with the plan."

Lem? Why is he in the operating room?

Jaxine tried to voice the question, but her sluggish mind couldn't fight pull of the IV and the sedative gas from the mask. The conversation around her became muffled and distorted, and she finally gave in and drifted back with the fluffy, white clouds.

I love the concept for this story and it's a lot of fun to write similar books in three different genres. Looking forward to getting them out there in the universe.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Sabotage

As usual, we're having bizarre weather. Got hot again then a stormfront moved through and now we're back down to the sixties. I'm not complaining about the cooler temperatures or anything, but I'd rather stick with one range for longer than a week.

Still loaded up with work projects and I'm making solid progress on all of them. Sometimes it's like spinning plates and trying to keep them all going at the same rate, but I love the variety of the stuff I'm working on right now.

Not a bad week for viewing television. I did the taking a break from wall-to-wall words thing again and got pretty much a full round of shows in this week.

Started off with Best in Paradise and enjoyed the rewatch of "Dark Memories." I have one more episode left for this series then I'll be switching over to Beyond Paradise. I'm looking forward to starting that one.

Caught another episode of Death in Paradise with the ninth season premiere. I think this is Jack's last season and the new guy takes over for the next one. Enjoyed the episode a lot.

Watched another episode of Elementary and enjoyed it. Not a huge Moriarity fan, but I like the layers and back and forth between Holmes and Watson with Moriarity.

Finished up the third season of The Batman and I'm getting ready to start the fourth. I honestly can't remember if I ended up liking the fourth season or not.

Also caught an episode of Classic Rugrats and the three vignettes were ones I don't remember seeing before so nice to have something new to me.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Sabotage, a novella that sets a couple up for a bit of a twisty mystery to solve … in space.

Here's the miniblurb:

Pilots Sapphire Naught and Gifford Fell are tasked with finding a saboteur and neither is allowed to fly until the culprit is apprehended. The cat and mouse game of tracking and luring their prey into a trap takes its toll on their relationship but ends up making them see new sides to each other.

And a sneaky peek…

Giff signaled the bartender. "Another round here." He motioned to the empty glasses on the table.

The drinks helped pull Sapphire out of her mood. At least the thundercloud disappeared from over her head. Deep into a game of darts, she laughed when her opponent missed the target by a mile.

Neal Blanchard, a fellow pilot dropped down beside Giff. "Good to see her having fun." He nodded toward Sapphire.

Giff studied Neal a moment. The other man flew well, but didn't really gel with either squadron. Something about the guy always seemed a little off. And his comment about Sapphire puzzled Giff.

He leaned back in his seat and quirked an eyebrow. "Yeah? Why's that?"

Neal shrugged. "When you guys came in, she looked pissed, like she wanted to tear someone a new one."

Giff couldn't disagree, but Neal's statement rubbed Giff the wrong way. "Look, she had a close call today and anyone would be angry when someone they trust fucks up." Especially when the error didn't make sense.

Neal's eyes widened. "What happened?"

Giff gave him the bare-bones version. He didn't intend to spread rumor and innuendo. Not when anyone could make a mistake.

Neal let out a low whistle. "And top-ranked Sapphire missed it on the preflight check?" He stopped just short of referring to her as the golden girl.

Giff had no intention of playing Neal's game tonight. "Uh, no. She didn't miss anything. Preflight was down to Warrenty, who apparently fubared it up." Damn, he shouldn't have let Blanchard push buttons.

Neal became agitated. "What do mean? Warrenty never screws up."

Giff arched his brows. "You got a thing for the deckhand?" Neal would be in Unrequitedville … Monica had a steady thing with one of the engineers.

Neal shut his trap. "What? No, not at all." He backpedaled. "She's good, probably the best on the chief's deck." He snagged a napkin and crumpled it.

Giff agreed. "Yeah, but she's also human and can make a mistake."

Neal frowned. "Doesn't seem like her though." His gaze followed Sapphire when she went to retrieve her winning darts. "Nothing gets in her way, does it?" Crumpling turned to shredding.

Giff blinked. "Who? Saph?" He shrugged. "Nah, what she can't plow through, she bounces back from." One of the many things he loved about her.

Neal studied her a little longer then abruptly stood. "Guess that's why she stays at the top." An odd glare lit his eyes. "Have a nice night, Fell." He dropped the torn napkin on the table then turned to leave.

Giff lifted his chin up then tilted his head to the side, watching Neal elbow his way out of the bar. "He's a strange one."

Having a lot of fun with this one. Giff and Sapphire are a cool couple to write.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

 

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Roll the Hard Six

Hello, September. Here's hoping you're not as maniacal as August. I'd love for the weather to make up its mind and hold for a while. I don't imagine that will actually happen.

Had a lovely day off to travel to the Hocking Hills area to meet up with my cousins on my mom's side of the family. We're hoping to make it an annual event. I couldn't take the whole weekend, but it was so much fun to spend time with them. Bonus points for being close enough to my daughter's location for grad school that I could take some of the things she forgot.

Still insanely busy with work and I'm happy for the new projects coming my way. Also kind of thrilled they're all a bit different so it's not the same thing for each manuscript.

Had an okay week of viewing. I got to watch a few things when I needed a break from wall-to-wall words. Sometimes it's nice to have a minivacation to reset my brain.

Caught an episode of The Batman and enjoyed it. It's a two-parter so I'm hoping to watch the second half this week.

Enjoyed an episode of Classic Rugrats. I don't really remember this one, but the later seasons of the show weren't watched quite as many times as the earlier ones.

Got an episode of My Life Is Murder watched and loved it. Again, Madison really stole the show. And the wink-wink-nod to Xena at the end was fun and awesome.

Started an episode of Signora Volpe and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens when Sylvia's undercover assignment is discovered.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Roll the Hard Six, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt. I picked up this challenge and added another spin to it. The phrase is from the reboot of Battlestar Galactica, but it also has real-world use. I'm trying to blend the two and having fun doing it.

Here's the miniblurb:

While serving on a star cruiser, Devin Granger and Foster Cordell have a friends-with-benefits relationship. When Foster has to face enemy raiders while alone on patrol, Devin realizes the depth of her feelings for him, which can't be a good thing in the middle of a war zone. The only thing she can do is maintain the status quo … if Foster survives the surprise encounter.

And a sneaky peek…

"Valance, Nomad. Contact. Seven raiders entered carom four five two."

Devin's breath hitched in her throat. "What the hell?" Enemy craft entered at an angle … which—shit—put Foster on the other side.

Meaning those seven raiders were between Foster and the Valance.

Adrenaline coursed through her chased by suffocating fear and worry. She raked a hand through her hair. Her heart pounded and her throat clogged. He didn't have backup. Foster had the lone recon patrol this shift.

Devin almost doubled over, the crash of reality making it hard to breathe. He's trapped. Alone. Fuck! She had to find someplace quiet and calm the hell down.

Dashing into the empty briefing room, she switched the comm panel to listen to the live feed.

The XO barked an order. "Launch alert fighters."

Devin snorted and almost choked. She paced back and forth, shaking her hands, trying to relieve the tension in her shoulders. Her stomach heaved and roiled.

She raked a hand through her hair. "What the hell is wrong with me?" I love him.

Her feet paused. "What? I can't love him." Her skin broke out in a cold sweat. "Who falls in love in the middle of a warzone?"

Apparently she did.

Geez.

The alert fighters launched, and she resumed her back and forth in the briefing room. The pilot's chatter faded to the background, and her mind bounced between picturing the grid in her head and calculating the math to get to Foster's coordinates.

Another frigid blast of truth gripped her hard. "Save yourself, Foster. You have to." A heavy weight wrapped around her chest. "No one else is gonna do it for you."

Shit. No one else could. Out in the soup, trapped with seven raiders between Foster and the Valance. No way would the alert fighters reach him in time.

Devin sank down in a first-row chair, closing her eyes. She envisioned Foster's position, counted maybe three ways he could get past the enemy combatants. But … two needed another pilot out there on his wing. The third—his best and only shot—would probably get him killed.

At the very least, it would damage his ship to the point where he'd never make it back to the nest on his own. But … it might buy him enough time for the alert squadron to get out there. Maybe.

Devin leaned forward. "Go for it, Foster." He'd know the maneuver she thought of. Hell, his dad damn near invented it. "Come on, Nomad. Roll the hard six." Her lips quirked.

He liked to claim he had no idea what people meant when they said the phrase, but Foster absolutely knew. Fergus Cordell used the combination as a thought exercise in war college. When his instructor told Fergus it couldn't be done, the elder Cordell proved the other man wrong by staging a demonstration … and cost the military a training craft.

Devin huffed out a breath. "Classic example of just because something can be done doesn't mean it should be." But in Foster's case, the opposite held true.

With her knee bouncing, she pictured the scenario. Foster would wait until the raiders were close. Then he'd do an end-to-end flip, hit the reverse thrusters while doing a barrel roll so the ass-end of the ship headed toward the enemy. The best odds were the raiders being caught so off guard they moved the fuck out of the way to avoid a collision. And the genius of the barrel roll meant none of them could get a target lock on Foster. However … the maneuver always proved to be dangerous as fuck. Imagine, spinning over and over—in reverse—with no way of seeing anything behind the ship. If Foster cleared the enemy formation, he might get lucky and be able to fire at one or two of the other crafts, but probably not. The toll it took on the ship—and the pilot—topped the list of reasons the hard six never got taught in flight school.

Her knee stopped moving up and down. "Gotta be truly insane to think this is Foster's best shot." But … she did.

Leaning back, she stared up at the dark ceiling, willing Foster to use the move, willing him to come back to her. And definitely trying not to freak out after realizing she loved him. She had no idea what to do with her new-found knowledge, especially when it might not matter. Not if—

Foster's voice sounded over the comms. "Valance, Nomad. Launch an SAR team. Think I'm gonna need them."

Devin barked out a laugh. "Damn straight you will."

An eerie sense of calm settled deep in Devin's bones. The certainty she'd see him again had her pushing up out of the seat and heading for the hangar deck.

I loved putting this scene together. Action mixed with a big emotional moment is a lot of fun to write.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Rewarding Experience

Another crazy week with record low temperatures for August. I'm talking wear a jacket because it dipped into the low forties at night. This week we're supposed to be back up in the mid to high nineties. Weather is wild.

Seriously jammed with work projects right now and I love being busy. I'm at the point where I'd love to have another four hours added to each day, so I don't feel like there aren't enough hours in the day. Also had to figure out a few things for my daughter's grad school, like how to drop a class and add a new one before the semester starts, which is Monday. As mentioned last week, she was in Ontario Canada for a theater festival and didn't have a lot of downtime. The good news is, she's set to go. Yay!

I didn't have a lot of viewing time this week. The verdict on my car is still out and that's been hovering in the back of my mind and distracting me. My work projects also need my full attention.

I did get to watch an episode of Elementary and ended up enjoying it. I skipped the one that I struggled to get through. I'd rather have forward momentum than get stuck and drop the show.

And that's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Rewarding Experience, a novella that puts a couple through a dangerous experience.

Here's the miniblurb:

When an explosion rocks a deep space mining expedition, injuring Trixie Bell, she realizes how much she wants and needs Jock Tennyson by her side. The grueling hours and physically exhausting work make the couple cranky and edgy, but Trixie decides to show Jock how rewarding a simple reprimand can be.

And a sneaky peek…

Trixie paused on the way to team three's location. A pop sounded above her head followed by a skitter of pebbles. She listened carefully, poised to move. There. A low whine hissed through the chute. She had about ten seconds before the first rumbling groan would occur.

"Shit. Cave-in."

Taking off at a dead run, she sprinted to the group mining an offshoot. She got to their location right before the first snap and crackle of falling debris rained down behind her. They didn't have much time to escape the cramped confines.

Motioning with one hand, she gave a sharp whistle. "Githo, githo, githo. Now. Now. Now." The shorthand phrase for get the hell out had the five-man team hotfooting past her.

She breathed a sigh of relief when they hit the larger corridor. They were out of the way. She started moving … but not fast enough to make it clear. The retaining wall gave under the pressure of the tumbling rock. And crumbled down on top of her.

Everything went dark and pain engulfed her. She spit dust and debris out and groaned. Damn. Her first thought? It sucked to be her right now.

The second? It wouldn't be easy to get her out. Shit. Shit. Shit.

An eerie quiet descended on the chute. Or maybe the roar in her ears dampened everything out. A little dazed, she took stock. Tried to move but couldn't. She definitely didn't have a lot of wiggle room. And everything hurt from her head to her toes.

The first voice she heard echoed off the stone. "Make a goddamn hole."

Jock. But how did he get here so fast?

"Trixie? Trix! Where are you?"

Buried under a crap ton of rubble. Hysterical laughter tried to escape but hurt so badly she sounded more like a wounded animal.

Her arm turned a weird angle, but she moved her fingers, waggling them a little. "Here. I'm here." She couldn't shout—pain made raising her voice impossible.

A scramble of feet and a shower of lose dirt and pebbles clued her in to Jock's arrival. "Trix? Geez." A bright spotlight swept over her. "Okay, you're gonna be out of there in no time." He shouted over his shoulder. "Bring the bags and vacuum. Now!" He focused on her again. "I'm here, Trix. I'm gonna get you out." Worry creased his face before determination settled in. "Hold tight, okay."

Trixie bit back a laugh. "Not like I have a choice." Searing flames of agony enveloped her, and she groaned.

Jock reached down and caught her chin in his hand. "Don't you die on me." Something raw and unchecked filtered through his voice and gaze. "I need you here with me, Trix."

Tears prickled behind her eyes, but she blinked them away. "Not going anywhere, Jock." It grew harder to breathe. "Get me out of here. Hurts. Like a bitch."

He gave a nod and backed away when two miners drew his attention. "We're going to start." Jock placed a makeshift shield around her head. "Shout out if anything causes more pain."

She lifted her chin. "I trust you, Jock. You know what you're doing." His engineering background would prove useful.

If anyone could get her out in one piece, Jock would be the man. Her mind drifted while she listened to him bark orders and direct the crew. How did he get down the shaft so fast? Didn't matter, because she might not have made it otherwise. The vacuum started pulling soft rubble from the pile while they moved the bigger pieces of heavy stone. Several times Jock stopped the work to evaluate their next step and to check on her.

When he lifted the shield a moment later to speak to her, his gaze held deep concern. "We have to cut three large pieces and they're all in sketchy positions. I want to fortify two while we remove the first."

Trixie tried for humor. "So … don't make any immediate plans then?"

He cracked a smile. "That would be a no." He sobered. "I promise we'll work as fast as we can." He arched a brow. "Any questions?"

Trixie gave him a wobbly grin. "Just one. How did you get here so damned fast?"

He blinked and shook his head. "Seriously? That's what you want to know?"

Her lips curved again. "Hey, I've been alone with my thoughts and nothing else for a while now. So, yeah, I'm wondering."

He leaned down, holding her gaze. "I was already on my way when the cave-in happened. Because you were right … but we'll talk about that after I get you out."

She smiled. "I'll hold you to it." He started to back away and she caught his attention again. "Hey, Jock." He angled his head around. "Thank you."

He gave a quick nod then got back to work. At this point, numbness encompassed her whole body … but she didn't want to say anything because he had enough to deal with. Including her bad attitude.

I gotta stop blaming him for the commission's bullshit. She truly couldn't imagine not having him in this godforsaken place. I need him in my life.

Drawing in a breath, she winced. It hurt to breathe. Her vision swam and a haze of blurry gray edged her perspective. She closed her eyes and drifted between paying attention to Jock's rescue orders and unconsciousness…

A little longer than normal, but I'm so happy with how this scene turned out.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

 

ML Skye

Sunday Snippet: Relative Chemistry (Uncivil Revolution)

Whew! What a week. It's been something of a wild ride. My daughter starts graduate school in Athens the week of August 25, and we're still trying to figure out her financial aid. She's headed to Ontario Canada this week for a theater festival, which is what she'll be getting her master's degree in. My work inbox is overflowing! I'm so grateful for all the new projects but also a little daunted by how much I have stacked up and waiting for me to get to. My car also has an issue that we're hoping is not the computer. I'll know more on Monday. Ugh!

I didn't get much done on the viewing front. Too many things needed my focus elsewhere. Between the phone calls for school and car problems, my brain turned to mush. Bleh.

I did get an episode of Best in Paradise in. I enjoyed it again. It's fun to have the introductions from the cast members.

I also got to watch the closing episode of Death in Paradise season eight. A very interesting and twisty episode with a really cool gesture at the end from the commissioner.

And I also finished up the main draft of a holiday manuscript I've been working on for, geez, almost a year. The sages finally cooperated and threw a bunch of ideas out. I'm so happy about that.

That's pretty much it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Relative Chemistry, a novel in the Uncivil Revolution series. Or maybe the Civil Revolution. I'm not sure on the title yet.

Here's the miniblurb:

In a nation torn apart by an uncivil war, Wallis Canton is allowed to live if she keeps the men at a covert human trafficking location sated and satisfied. When Etta Morgan is brought and held for sale to the highest bidder, Wallis finds a kindred spirit and rediscovers her will to be free. When Dom Marinelli arrives on the scene to save Etta, he almost takes out the one man, Perry Norris, who didn't abuse and degrade Wallis. With Perry's help, the four escape the facility and live to fight another day, and Perry helps Wallis navigate life on the outside, showing her good men do exist and love can flourish from tragic circumstances.

And a sneaky peek…

Wallis Canton shuffled along in front of her armed escort. Her head throbbed and her muscles ached. Twelve hours with no food and barely any water sapped all of her energy. Taking care of five clients didn't help. Sex burned a lot of calories.

I'm running on empty.

The man behind her grunted. "You're home. No work tomorrow. Rest up." His mouth twisted in a sneer.

The heavy steel door opened and Perry Norris, one of the caretakers, stepped to one side. "Instructions?" He spoke to the armed escort.

Wallis itched to get inside the facility, to have a shower, and find her bed. Her rumbling stomach and parched throat would need attention first. After that, she might curl up on the nearest flat surface and crash hard.

The goon—she never remembered their names—shook his head and nudged Wallis across the threshold. Perry lifted his chin and quickly closed the door, turning the deadbolt before he put out a steadying hand.

Wallis nearly crumpled at the supportive gesture. "Need water." Her voice cracked and rasped between her dry lips.

Perry pressed a bottle into her hand. "I figured. They never think past collecting the fee and moving on to the next stop." He guided her toward the bathroom in the old high school that functioned as a makeshift dorm for the sex workers.

She twisted the cap off and slowly drank a few sips of the clear liquid. "Thanks." Her stomach gurgled and roiled … the water making her queasy, even as it quenched her thirst.

Perry reached into his shirt pocket and tore the wrapper from a protein bar. "Didn't feed you either, did they?" He handed the food over.

She gratefully took the offering and bit into the mix of granola, peanut butter, and honey. "No." She chewed and swallowed, following with another longer drink. "Not usually out as long as I was today." A yawn escaped before she could stop it.

Perry angled her toward him, his gaze sweeping over her. "You're dead on your feet. Would you rather go to your room instead of the restroom?"

She shook her head. "I want a shower. I need to get … clean." Her gaze met his. "You know?" Especially after the long sex-filled day.

Perry dipped his chin. "Yeah. I do." He led her into the cavernous former locker room and over toward the line of showers. "Finish the food and water. I'll get the water warm for you." He pointed to the bench by the stalls.

She sank down then jumped back up. "Wait! You're fully—" The spray of water drowned her voice out.

Dressed. He's fully dressed.

Sitting back down, she nibbled the protein bar and sipped the water. The infusion of calories eased the emptiness in her stomach and the water soothed her throat, but her body still ached from the overexertion of the day. She might fall asleep right here.

Perry returned, his clothes damp. "All warmed up. You're good to go." He grabbed a towel from the rack and dried his hands off.

Wallis heaved a sigh and slowly got to her feet, swaying a little.

Perry caught her elbow. "You okay?" Concern etched his features.

Wallis lifted a shoulder. "Not sure. Can't really think straight." She moved forward, pausing by the stall. "Ugh. I don't even have the energy to get undressed." Her vision swam.

Perry put his hands on her shoulders. "Look, I'm not trying to be creepy or anything, but let me help. You can't stay upright much longer."

She gave a nod and held her arms up. Perry walked behind her and lifted her shirt over her head. Then he slid her pants down until she could step out of them and her clogs. She slowly made her way into the stall and under the hot spray of water.

Perry pulled the curtain. "I'll be right outside. Call out if you need anything."

She paused, wiping the water from her face. "Can you stay? I won't be long." As much as she'd love to spend the next twelve hours under the steamy mist, she wouldn't be able to stay awake much longer.

Perry grunted his acknowledgment. "I'll stay."

I'm very excited about writing this one. I think it's the final book in a three book series and the ideas have been rolling around in my head for more than a decade.

 

That's it for this week. Catch everyone on the flipside.

ML Skye